An order restricting alcohol consumption publicly in Romford has been extended.  

A Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) was implemented in Romford town centre in 2017 with an aim to curb “alcohol related nuisance”.

Under the order, carrying open containers of alcohol and drinking alcohol publicly was barred in the town centre’s alcohol control area.  This excludes licenced premises like bars, restaurants, clubs and other businesses serving alcohol legally.

Romford Recorder: The Alcohol Control Area set out in consultation documentsThe Alcohol Control Area set out in consultation documents (Image: Havering Council)While it cannot ban people from drinking in a public place, failing to stop doing so or surrendering alcohol in the PSPO zone when asked by an officer is a criminal offence.

People can be prosecuted or issued a penalty notice for the breach of such orders.

Read More: Town centre alcohol ban extension proposed

The PSPO was approved for three more years in October 2020. A public consultation was launched in July 27 this year on extending it until 2026.

In a cabinet meeting that took place yesterday (October 4), Havering Council has approved the proposal for its renewal for a further three years.

Justifying the grounds for extension, a council report said: “The police advise that without a PSPO in existence street drinkers would not be challenged and would most likely congregate drinking openly in larger increased numbers participating in ASB and crime.

“This would have a huge negative impact and will see a reduction in the quality of life of residents and visitors coming to Romford.”

Romford has a dedicated town centre police team, it added, who are “very proactive in tackling crime and disorder” but “can only do so much” as resources are at times stretched.

If the PSPO is lifted, it would place an “even bigger burden on the team and emergency services as a whole”, it said.